Jonathan Wilhoite Blog: Scientists Create Genetically Modified Monkeys to Study Autism

Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Scientists Create Genetically Modified Monkeys to Study Autism

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Autism affects around one percent of people all over the world, which should stress the impact it has on many of us. Fortunately, continuous efforts are being made to lend more light to the disease – and subsequently find ways to manage it better. An addition to these: a group of Chinese scientists create genetically modified monkeys to study autism.

Scientists have genetically modified monkeys to study autism

Scientists don’t know all the causes of autism, but they do know that certain genes and environmental factors can play a role in the broad spectrum of developmental disabilities that fall under the term. Gaining additional knowledge isn’t easy, however, because most of the nitty gritty brain research is done in rodents — animals that don’t mimic complex brain disorders well. Now, researchers in China say that they’ve managed to produce monkeys that display autism-like behaviours for the first time, according to a study published in Nature today. Their research, however, raises questions about scientists’ ability to create a non-human primate model of autism that’s actually valid. Read More…

While nothing conclusive has yet come to light from the study, we can still celebrate the fact that some of our most brilliant minds are doing the best that they could to get answers. When a group of scientists create genetically modified monkeys to study autism, they are bound to get it right some time. So we all have something to look forward to.

In the meantime, ensure proper care for children with autism spectrum disorder through:

Educating yourself about autism. The more you know about the disorder, the less afraid you will be of it – and the better you can take care of your child. Take the time to proactively research on the subject, staying on top of new information about it.
Pay special attention to your child. Studying your child is important to knowing his or her triggers, as well as what he or she finds comfortable, annoying, pleasing, etc. Take note of behaviours and make sure to log any significant changes to tell your healthcare practitioner.
Provide solid support. Most importantly, give your child a loving, understanding home that will accept his or her quirks. Also reward his or her small accomplishments. Providing solid support through anything can sometimes do more wonders than the most advanced medical technologies.
Take it one day at a time. As scientists create genetically modified monkeys to study autism and other efforts, your child’s future is not set in tragic stone. Learn to enjoy every day, and don’t jump to conclusions about how tough his or her life will be, henceforth. Experts say the course of the disorder is hard to map, so hope for the best.

Image Credit: Scientists have genetically modified monkeys to study autism – The Verge

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